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Wednesday, August 18, 2010

The Hero's Journey

I was first introduced to the "hero's journey" a couple years ago at a small writer's conference.  The workshop instructor used the movie Star Wars (the original one with Luke still on his home planet) and then pointed out all the different stages of the journey for the hero. 

Not long after, a friend recommended the book The Writer's Journey by Christopher Vogler.   Based on Joseph Campbell's mythic story structure, Vogler breaks it down so that anyone can understand and apply to their writing.

One of the things I like about the hero's journey is how it's kinda like a road map.  It gives you a general direction of where to go and mileposts along the way.  And while this sounds like something that only works in fantasy stories, it applies to all genres.  Even a mystery has a "Call to Adventure," "Tests, Allies, Enemies," and "Return." 

I'd encourage everyone to learn more about the hero's journey and it just so happens someone out there formed a group so we can do that.  This group is dedicated to learning, using and teaching the mythic structure for writers called The Hero's Journey.  You can find it here.   It's a new group, just getting started so give it a look see. 

Also, get the book The Writer's Journey by Christopher Vogler.  I've got "LOTS" of writing books but this is one of my favorites.

Sunday, August 15, 2010

Market Monday

Hey all...

Maybe I'll get back on a posting schedule...

Here's a Steampunk Anthology.   I really didn't think I'd like steampunk, but I was pleastantly suprised.  So, even if you don't want to write it, give it a read.

It Came From Her Purse - This sounds like a fun anthology.  it's for sci fi, fantasy and a few horror stories.  I think anything that came from my purse would be a horror story. :-)

Shock Totem -   for dark fantasy and horror short stories.    They also want some non-fic so might we interesting to check out.

Lightspeed Magazine -  For all science fiction short stories. 

Spectra Magazine - This is another spec fiction market. 

These look nice however, I haven't totally checked them out.  I just offer them as a suggestion.  Remember to read the submission guidelines and contract info before signing. 

Have a great week!

Monday, August 2, 2010

World Building or is it Worldbuilding...

Whichever it is, that's what I've been doing.  But not only the geography but lots of other stuff such as government, religion, customs and trade.  Plus so much more.

Thing is, for fantasy writers who create their own world, these are things you have to know. 

So, for all who who create your own worlds, here's a really, really, really nice worldbuilding questionaire by Patricia C. Wrede.

Also, a Map Workshop from Holly Lisle.

Hope you enjoy.  And I promise, I'll do better this month.